The Shoulder of Mutton is a stone-built pub set in semi-rural surroundings. On the corner of a road junction, and side-on to the main road, it is easy to drive past without really noticing - this would be a mistake!

On approaching the door, your eye is drawn at once to the pleasant well-tended garden at the side, on several levels. There is plenty of outside seating, ideal for enjoying glimpses of the countryside visible through the trees on the other side of the lane, whilst you enjoy your pint.

Inside it is welcoming and comfortable, with a warm and friendly atmosphere.  There are two rooms, the smaller to the right of the entrance (interesting selection on the jukebox), whereas straight ahead is the main bar area with its all-important handpumps.

Owners Wendy (pictured right, accepting the award from Branch Chairman Rhoda Waygood) and Roy have been welcoming customers for nearly twenty years to this thriving pub. It is very much part of the community - the first choice of date for our visit was already taken up with a local charity event!

There are always three real ales on offer. John Smith’s is a regular and the two guests are usually from microbreweries, which on our visit were from Church End and Shardlow - followed by one from Slaters after we had drunk all the Church End!

This beer policy was really what won the award - consistently offering its customers quality and choice - as well as it being one of the most genuinely welcoming and friendly pubs in the area.

 

Shoulder of Mutton Hallfield Gate, Shirland, Alfreton, Derbyshire DE55 6AA Tel: 01773 834992 Click here for a map of the area